5 Reasons to Sign up for the Whidbey Island Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K or 5K

Approximately 95 miles north of Seattle, nestled up in Washington State’s Puget Sound is the beautiful and picturesque Whidbey Island. On April 14, the island plays host to the Whidbey Island Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, and 1K Kids Run.

Here are 5 reasons to grab a friend or pack up the family and  make the Whidbey Island event an early season destination weekend.

The Whidbey Island Marathon is the only running race to close Deception Pass Bridge allowing the full marathon participants to enjoy views from the bridge before tackling the remainder of the stunning course.

The Whidbey Island races are arguably the most scenic events offered in the Northwest. The full and half marathon courses promise to be visually spectacular with participants running along rolling country backroads and waterfront coastlines with magnificent views of snow-capped mountains and ocean waves. The 10K, 5K, and Kids event courses stay closer to Oak Harbor offering views of Skagit Bay and the distant mountain ranges. All events finish at Bayshore Drive Waterfront in Downtown Oak Harbor.

Race organizers have again partnered with the Capital City Marathon held May 19, the North Olympic Marathon held June 2, and the Bellingham Bay Marathon held September 29, to form the Salish Sea Road Race Series. Upon registering for the Whidbey Island event runners are automatically considered series participants and receive a discount of 15% off on any of the remaining Salish Sea Road Races.

All series participants who complete three of four races receive commemorative Salish Sea Running Series apparel, finisher medals and other swag at the final Bellingham Bay Marathon.

Being just a short drive from Seattle, this destination race is a perfect rural getaway for active friends, couples and families. There is a scenic running or walking event for all ages and abilities. Head out for the day or make it a full weekend escape.

Sign up for the Whidbey Island Marathon and get your qualification race completed early in the season. The Boston Marathon qualifying event is a point-to-point race starting at the famed Deception Pass Bridge then winding its way through picturesque ocean views and tranquil farmland before cruising  into Oak Harbor. Be warned, however, this event has a challenging course with rolling hills. If you qualify here, you’ll crush Boston!

As well, if you need someone to keep you on pace to reach your goal, the full and half marathon events have you covered. The Super Pacers of Tacoma, WA will be pacing both events this year.

Marathon – 3:30, 3:45, 4:00, 4:10, 4:20, 4:30, 4:45, 5:00
Half Marathon – 1:50, 2:00, 2:10, 2:15, 2:20, 2:30